Real Madrid head coach José Mourinho has provided an insight into the specific reasoning behind his decision to haul attacking star Vinícius Jr. off late in the club’s most recent outing.

Real were of course back in action yesterday evening, welcoming Real Sociedad to Spain’s capital for their first home fixture of the new La Liga campaign.

The aforementioned Vinícius featured from the off in the matchup, from his customary berth on the left flank. And en route to an eventual 4-1 Blancos triumph, the 26-year-old played a starring role.

Vinícius opened his account for the season from close range during the 2nd-half, before also laying on a wonderful assist for Kylian Mbappé to round out his hat-trick.

Speaking to the media post-match, José Mourinho was therefore inevitably drawn on the name of his explosive winger. And the Portuguese tactician, in his response, revealed the warmhearted reason behind Vinícius’ 2nd-half withdrawal from the action:

“I know that Vini Jr. was booed by the fans last season, so I decided to sub him out… to let him hear the love from the fans after he scored!”